For the first time ever, we recently hosted a joint meeting of the Arsenal Advisory Board (AAB) and Women’s Matchday Forum at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.
The meeting brought together our supporters with Managing Director, Richard Garlick, and our Director of Women’s Football, Clare Wheatley who outlined our strategy and ambitions to win major trophies.
Chaired by our Chief Communications Officer, Kate Laurens, the meeting was a positive forum for an open discussion about Arsenal Women and the wider growth of women’s football. We were also joined by our Chief Commercial Officer, Juliet Slot, and our Chief Operations Officer, Karen Smart.
We thank our supporters for taking the time to join us to discuss these important topics.
Team and community fuelling each other
Richard provided a club-wide update following a strong run of results, both in the Women’s Super League and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. He reflected on our fantastic support once again this season and highlighted our activities during Women's History Month earlier this year, during which we celebrated our diverse supporters, and connected with the history of Arsenal Women and its role and impact in our local community.
Clare discussed the strong connection between our Head Coach, Renée Slegers, the team and our growing community of passionate supporters, and how that connection drives the team to perform on the pitch, home and away.
Clare also spoke about the investment in the team’s long-term growth, with our transfer strategy rooted in attracting the best young talent to complement our core of senior internationals.
Accelerating the wider game
Supporters shared their members’ views about ensuring the Women’s Super League and wider pyramid are competitive and financially sustainable. A shared objective of the whole group.
Supporter questions
During a wide-ranging Q&A we took questions on topics including inclusivity, the matchday experience, Emirates Stadium, governance, and player welfare.
The AAB’s final meeting of the season will take place on 1 May, while the Women’s Matchday Forum has concluded its formal meeting schedule for the season.
We are grateful to our supporters for their unwavering support and time to discuss important matters concerning the women’s game.
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